John M. Chamberlain facts for kids

John Marvin Chamberlain (born May 27, 1844 – died May 5, 1930) was a talented musician. He was born in England and became a composer of hymns for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was also a skilled pianist and owned a music store. His most famous hymn is "We Are Marching On to Glory."

John Marvin Chamberlain's Early Life

John Marvin Chamberlain was born in Leicester, England. His parents were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 1852, when John was eight years old, his family decided to move. They left England to start a new life in Utah Territory in the United States.

Their journey was long. They sailed across the ocean to New Orleans. From there, they traveled up a river to Florence, Nebraska. Finally, they crossed the wide plains to reach Salt Lake City, Utah.

A Life of Music and Service

When John was young, he worked as a carpenter. But he loved music and soon became a musician. He worked with different music companies. Later, he started his own business called the Chamberlain Music Company.

John married Louise M. E. Rawlings in the Manti Utah Temple. They both loved music and were members of the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir for many years. John was also an organist. He played the organ in the "Old" Tabernacle before the larger Salt Lake Tabernacle was built in the 1860s.

John also served in his church community. He helped lead the Sunday School program. He was also a choir director for his local church group, known as the 8th Ward, in Salt Lake City.

His Famous Hymns

John Marvin Chamberlain wrote many hymns. His most well-known song is "We Are Marching On to Glory." It was first called "Marching Homeward." He also wrote other hymns, such as "When Jesus Shall Come in His Glory" and "A Sunday School Call." His music continues to be sung by many people today.